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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Dream Fighters & A Bit About Me That I don't Talk About

hi all my precious people....my heart has been so touched and encouraged by all your emails and videos....and it made me realize it's time to share a bit about me, that might encourage all of you...I want all of you to become Dream Fighters...to fight for your dreams....and here's a little bit of me trying to share a little bit of me...which is hard to talk about...since a lot of people don't know a lot of this....

I love you all and want you to know I'm your biggest cheerleader to go after your dreams!!!!huge love.....and here's the video

Kandee, you're amazing! I always love watching your videos, because you bring such a huge smile to my face with every word of encouragement and knowledge you share. You're such an incredible influence for not only girls (or boys!) who want to do makeup for a living, but for everyone who questions their dreams. You bring so much light to people you've never even come face-to-face with, and I really hope you know how much you inspire people - myself included! Thank you so much for sharing such a personal side of yourself that no one could've seen coming. It takes a really strong person to be this vulnerable, open and honest.

I can't speak for everyone, but I think a LOT of people would agree with me in saying that you're about 500 billion times cooler for sharing your life story with us! Anyone who judges you for living your life is obviously sadder and more scared than you were when all those terrible things were happening to you. You're an amazing artist, and even more importantly, an amazing person. Never stop shining your light for others to reflect, because it's through people like you that others realize what it is to be truly happy with themselves and each other.

thank you for sharing your story. I feel the same way. you know i got married young and things were very hard. i've been through things i'd rather not say out in the open, but although things seem absolutly amazing in my marriage. i still feel like i cant go to school or look for make up jobs because i have 3 girls under the age of 2! i cant afford daycare. no one wants to watch 3 kids and i do feel like the only thing i'll ever do is be a mother. and though it's such a blessing. i feel like a no body. everyone i know is suceeding in life while i'm sitting in the shadows at home everyday running a million miles an hour after kids. no one wants to visit me or be my friend because they dont want to be around that many kids. i feel so alone and honestly the only time i feel happy is when i watch your video's and i cry everytime because i just wish i could jump through and give you a hug and just learn all i can from you. I leave germany and go back to the U.S. in october and i'm going to TRY my hardest to fullfill my dreams. i never would have if it wasnt for you. thank you kandee. thank you!

Wow Kandee, you are a wonderful person! So strong, powerful, inspiring amd REAL! You don't know how much this video means!!! Thanks for sharing your story. You inspire me to be braver than ever before. You are so brave!!!Lots of love, Annemarie xx

Greetings from Finland! I just saw your video and it makes me almost cry! Thank you for inspiration. You are SO beatiful and I hope you for all the best in you life! I think I'm gonna have some best stuff in my life too, someday :)

wow!! your story is very inspiring. You have sooo much talent Kandee. The way you can just look at a picture and recreate a look is just amazing! It's kind of refreshing to know that your past wasn't 'perfect'. It gives hope to many people...

Im a subscriber to your videos and always love the enthusiasm and light that you bring to each and every one. Im guilty of looking out at eeryone else and thinking that they have it perfect while your the only one who seems to be struggling....like from the outside it looks like you have it made, youre beautiful, succsessful, talented and most importantly humble and lovely...and it just seems like you have it made. It took me a while to realise that everyone has a story and everyone has their own hurdles to overcome. But watching this video has shown me yours and it truly touched me to tears. I think that is one of the most couragous videos ive ever had the good fortune to watch, not to mention the most incredible journey through life that i have ever come across. I just wanted to say congratulations. You are inspiring and beautiful on the inside and the out and i comend you to the highest degree for having the faith and courage to turn your life around.

Hi ive watched all your videos over about the last month, im a bit late to youtube lol but as soon as i saw yours i was amazed with your brightness and your beauty and you make everything so positive =] I just watched this video and It brought a tear to my eye but its sooo inspiring what you have been through and hw you have come out of everything, I think the fact you have kids is beautiful and shows that you are such a strong person because so many people think that is whats going to stop them. I reeeealy realy want to be a make-up artist and sometimes i dont know what to tell people because i think people want to hear that you want to be a docter or an achitect (wrong spelling?)lol but id hate to be in such a mondane job and have always loved makeup, I live in England aswell so being in L.A where i want to be seems far but it can all be accomplished! Sorry ive babbled lol but youve inspired me so much, thank you =]

I've always been too shy to leave a comment on your blog before, but I had to today. Thank you so much for sharing your story, you are so inspiring!! I love your videos...it's like a whole new world opening up to me! You are beautiful and talented, and such a fabulous role model to your kids. Lots of love from the UK, Stephanie x

Kandee,You being honest and sharing some of your story really makes you a real person who has alot of real issues that as woman we have to deal w/all the time.We are mothers and care takers by nature and tend to find ourseves in situations with men and all we really wanted was love and we get that confused alot with our own stuff,like the need to be loved takes us to not very good places and we dont make the healthiest decisions,i also have been in that very same place and i know that we love our babies and everything falls on us,the men go on w/there lives and we have to figure out what to do next,and yes it was very lonely and i was lucky to have had my mom if not for her who knows,i am sooo greatful to her.Kandee,i truly hope that you have learned from your past dont ever deny or be ashamed like you said,you needed to go through to get where you are today!!!Just dont repeat the same actions you seem to be focusing on your career and if you have that opputinity to do so thats great,i know its hard w/3 childeren are they with you now??I noticed that your not at your original place,it looks like Ians place,its so nice his pics are on his site,he takes amazing pics,you two could really do some great things!!!!Again thank you for being you and i believe that all you have been through is not that different than alot of women a little different story but the feelings are exactly the same,and its Kandees time to shine,just stay away from the men right now ha-ha,you are a cutey and i am sure they are so wanting to be w/you.......luv you and much happiness ,Deirdre.

Kandee, you are a GodSend and your story makes you 100xs more of an inspiration in my opinion. Your wonderful personality, openess to tips and beautiful face was what "hooked" me on your videos...now that I know what that personality has been thru and how it continues to shine, it makes it ALL the more amazing. You deserve every ounce of happiness and you will EXCEED your dreams.

My name is Mairi,I'm from Estonia. I'm 23 and I have 4 children (5 year old girl,2and half year old boy&girl,and 7 months old babygirl)I accidently found your videos on youtube,and I have to say that you saved my day!I don't have much time to take care of myself,to visit beauty salon's,to go shopping and so on..Thanks to your tips I can be beautiful and fashionable at home and when I visit friends :)I wish you happiness and peace in your life!!!

WOW WOW WOW, you are such an inspiration to me! Your constant spirit and happiness and pure joy flows out in every video or blog post to all of us who follow you. I started watching your videos a few months back and ever since you've inspired me to feel like the princess all us girlies should feel like and to reach for the stars. I'm fighting to become a teacher and touch lives through teaching kiddies but I find myself dream chasing through the back door. Since watching your story I can admit that I know I can do it and it doesnt matter if others have their doubts, I know I can do this and thats all that matters (even if it takes years of blood, sweat and tears - it will be soo so worth it). I'm a firm believer in "Smile and the world will smile right back at you or even with you" and this expression couldnt be more true in relation to you. Thank you for sharing so much personality, history, knowledge, empowerment, encouragement and most of all pure happiness.

Hugs and Kisses all the way from across the pond in Ireland

Your faithful fan who always checks in to see more of you or even to look back over old posts that brighten up my days,

Since I "met" you thru your videos I always thought you were sooo inspirational, so passionate, so awesome, and now that you've shared something like that... I'm speechless, you made me cry.

That's such an unique story that could have ended completely different and yet, here you are, a shiny, bright, optimistic and AMAZING person who has rise like a phoenix to show the world how being happy is a choice.I cannot say thank you enough!

I wish, with all my heart, that this amazing path that you are on is only the beggining to an incredible life. You deserve it.

Hi Kandee! I just came across some of your videos the other night and absolutely love them! You are amazing at what you do and have given me inspiration and really lifted my spirits! One month after graduating from beauty school I had my first daughter and did not have a chance to take my state boards to get my licence. This sounds crazy, but three months after her I found out I was pregnant again! I felt horrible, like my life was over and I was a failure- especially because I was a waitress and going to now have 2 babies to take care of. I did not have the confindence to take my state boards because it had been so long since I graduated and I felt horrible! Then one day I was getting my hair done (finally- it had been a year and a half!) and this awesome stylist encouraged me that I should just go and get it done and come work with her. Well I thought about it, dusted myself off and re- studied for my test. I past and felt AMAZING! Now I am working at that salon and LOVE IT! I am still working on getting my confidence up and getting back to the old me. Watching your videos really inspire me and I look forward to many more. I think you are amazing and admire you for going for it!! You have touched many people and I wish you the best of luck and know many good things will come to you!! Thanks again Kandee, you rock!

there is so much passion and energy and vitality in you kandee that I actually felt it sitting here i dont know how many thousands of miles away in the cold. I am really glad that you are able to not only encourage others to live their dream but most importantly yourself because so often we are our own worst enemies. thank you for sharing your story, i really do hope that God gives me the oportunity to meet you one day and not just as any person but as one make up artist to another. also good on you for not cussing. :)

Wow this video was amazing. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Kandee. It was really quite emotional watching you tell it. You have have been through some awful sounding times and yet you are this amazing bubbly happy person. Its awesome!. :) Your such an inspiration. Keep up all the good work. xxxx

Kandee, you totally made me cry! :) Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. When you talked about people being abusive or telling you that you can't reach your dreams, I remembered a lot of stuff happened to me too, they became like voices in my mind from the past saying I can't do it. So I'm going to do it! I'm going to do something today that will bring me closer to my dreams :) So you'll know at least one person you helped. Probably tons more!!! -big hugs- for you Kandee, you darling daring big-hearted person, you! :)

Hi Kandee, I'm sure many of us women have been in similar situations, I know I have...but, it's okay and in the end we have the opportunity to become better people. I love that you shared something so personal with everyone and I know I probably speak for lots of your fans, when I say that you're a great person and what really sucks is that your both pretty and nice, lol...Anyway, I know we all support you and I just wanted to say thanks and it looks like you came out okay to me!! Have a great day and thanks again for sharing your story!

you are such a light kandee!!! i was sooooo touched by your story and love you so much more for sharing. youve inspired me and given me confidence to pursue my own dreams and I pray that God blesses you and your babies far far beyond your dreams.Never stop being the amazing gorgeous and wonderful person you are and never stop staying true to your principles, beliefs and values. you had me in tears just watching your video-in a good way obviously ;) stay blessed, love and hugs! x x x

Kandee, thanks sooo much for sharing. I definitely feel soo in the rut right now. I'm 17, 18 in feb, and my parents keep me in this little box because I'm their only child, not to mention a teenage girl. I feel like I'm giving up my dream of being an artist of some kind to be this doctor when I KNOW I DON'T WANT TO END UP IN A HOSPITAL under ANY circumstance.

Thank you sooo much for sharing because I'm really gonna try to make my dreams happen. Maybe I can work as a physician in a day spa somewhere tropical and beautiful with a PhD. But I totally agree with you. I love making people feel good about themselves, making them feel pretty and beautiful and handsome and wanted and healthy and happy. I'm SO going for it!

You are truly amazing at everything you set out to do. May God continue blessing you and your kids and everyone you touch <33

omg Kandee, I love you so much, thank you ever so much for opening up to us so honestly and fearless, that for a start is a very inspiring thing. I personally think that you are the coolest person that I have come across in a looong time, having kids makes one even cooler tbh, it takes some to be a mum and a single mum especially. I can relate so much to what you said, I too am/was always the black sheep of the family, married twice, got a kid too but by someone I'm not married to yet, no real job, only housewife ectect, you name it. But not long ago I saw some videos of this beautiful person on YouTube, beautiful especially because her beautiful heart is shining through, and that lovely person called Kandee showed me some crafting tricks. I think I have found my dream, I want to craft, it gives me such inner peace and joy, and I actually get positive feedback from the world around me for once about the things I do!!! And that my dear comes down to your videos because you showed me some of your great ideas and got my crafting fire going :) You'll always have a special place in my heart and you truely stand out from this place called internet, because you are so real and honest and you have such a big beautiful heart:) Plus you do great Tuts, wohoooo! Love ya Kandee <3- Steffi -

Thanks for sharing your story. Many people can relate! It's hard to pick yourself up after a bad past and you've done it! I know what it feels like to be in a verbally abusive relationship and it sucks! I was put down for thinking positive and called stupid for being happy n having a smile on my face and just like u... Was told my dreams are stupid! But I know that I can accomplish anything and I have already.... And so have you! You're blessed to b able to live your dream and share the love with your children! You've inspired me to pursue my dream in makeup that I've put on hold to become a nurse. I always come to your blog to keep me motivated and I'm glad u posted this! U got my tearing up :). Well my god bless u even more!! <3 ting

Just wanted you to know that I think your amazing for posting this video. It really lets us know who you are. I think it's brave of you to put it up. Oh and you are so much more cooler knowing that you have kids and what not, it's awesome! Thank you again for being inspiring and always having such kind words!!!

Hi Kandee,, i've been watching lots of your videos and I haven't subscribed i'm sorrrryyyy! After watching your video about your past it reminded me so much of my Moms past, i think I got through a whole packet of kleenex! You are so couragious and beautiful, and a true inspiration..I admire you and your work so much and I hope you now feel all the love that you must truelly deserve!To a beautiful girl with a beautiful heartFrom Rebecca in rainy England .x.

I left an abusive home when I was growing up to then go into an abusive marriage. Had 2 children and for them I fought to have a better life. I'm now with someone else and he isnt perfect but Ive raised the bar on what I put up with. I wont ever get the confidance back I once had my ex used to tell me how fat useless and ugly I was and when I had post natel depression he told me the babies would be better off if I killed myself, he packed my clothes and said I should leave while they were asleep but i couldnt. He crushed me inside emotionally and my spirit. Its hard to come back from rock bottom. Thanks for sharing Kandee. Like you say the broken ones can shine the brightest sometimes and I am getting there.

YOU ROCK GIRL........YOU INSPIRE ME EVERYDAY.......YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL INSIDE AND OUT....THANKS SO SO SO SO MUCH FOR SHARING THAT PART OF YOURSELF......I'M AN 8TH GRADE TEACHER, AND YOU INSPIRE ME TO KEEP ON INSPIRING MY STUDENTS....IT'S AND AWESOME CHAIN REACTION........LOVE YA !!!!!!!!!!!!

WOW what an amazing story and very unexpected. You are an inspiration!!!! Never in a million years would I have thought you have been through so much being that you have such a positive and uplifting personality. Knowing about your past and seeing how positive you are in the present is more of an inspiration then anything else.

I wish you a lifetime of happiness and success. I'm looking forward to the NY glaminars :o)

I just wanted you to know how much I really needed to hear these words from you today. Yesterday was a bad day for me and when I left work I cried my eyes out. I feel like I'm in that place that you were in. Like a standstill. Like my life isn't going anywhere and it's definitely not what I had invisioned it to be. So to hear your inspiring words was like a breath of fresh air. I feel like I'm not alone in my feelings and I want you to know how much that means. You're doing wonderful things and I admire you so much.

Kandee - Thank you SO much for posting this video...it's exactly what I needed to hear! I really wanted to just jump through the computer monitor and hug you! Even though I barely wear any makeup, I watch all your videos because I adore your personality, spunk and you always make me smile! I'm currently trying to pursue my goal of going to nursing school and being a nurse practioner, and I definitely get those moments when I feel overwhelmed or intimidated and my goal seems so far away. There's never enough money to pay the rent, pay my bills or pay for classes. Since I don't have a sugar daddy, I have to work full time on top of school so I'm always pooped. Hearing your story makes me want to keep plugging along no matter how long it takes or how hard it might be. In the end, it'll be worth it! Thanks for being brave enough to share!! I think you're great and don't let anybody make you think otherwise!!!!!!!

Kandee, I first saw your videos on youtube a few months ago while I was looking for other make-up videos. I never looked at anymore after yours. When I think of doing make-up I think of inspiring people and your videos were so inspiring. I wanted to comment so many times but with every video the inspiration was just stronger and stronger and i didn't know what to say. Thank you for sharing your story you are so amazing!! I too have always wanted to be a makeup artist and my parents have always said "come on now" so I am in my junior year at college for psychology but I told them I am going to beauty school when I get out. My sister was a young mom that didn't feel like college fit her and she reminds me a lot like you. She is 23 with 3 boys (all very young) and she just graduated from beauty school. I look up to her so much even though my parents frown on her path. I look up to you too! Thank you so much for everything. I hope your life continues to be great. Love, Katie

Kandee!I'm Juli from Germany and a HUGE fan of you. This video truly touched my heart. You earn so much respect! I can't thank you enough for your story. How many times I find myself in saying no I can't do this, I have to give this dream up. You got me to the point to stick back on my dreams. You're such a wonderful person Kandee! Wish you all the best 'cause you deserve it!

Kandee,Thank you so much for sharing your story with us! I can't imagine how much courage that took to be this open for all the world to see. You are such a beautiful person through and through and this testimony just proved that even more. God is given you such a talent and you are going to do HUGE things with it! I can't wait to continue to watch the journey He has set out for you.

Do you realize what you have just done?! By opening up about your story you have just made a difference in so many lives. You may have been nervous to share it, but it was worth it. You are such an incredible person with such an incredible story. I have shared this with everyone over at my blog too b/c I think they should see it. Your babies should be very proud of their momma. Thank you so much for sharing.

Hi Kandee I have been a huge fan of yours since i've starting watching your videos on youtube. And i just wanted to say i think your an incredible person with a beautiful soul, and you are very inspiring. No offense I always thought you like this mega person beautiful and sweet and living a dream life and I think it was amazing of you to share your story and now i identify with you on a whole new level. You are a wonderful person and I feel very priviliged that I have anything in common with you.

You truly are as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside (which I'm working on with your help both outside and in!!!!!)

Thank you so much for your amazing story. I wish you and your children all the best and I will remain an even more devoted fan!!!

You are an amazing, beautiful person, with all the shit you have been through to be where you are now. I think the hardest job in the world is being a mom, and on top of it you have this makeup career. So props to you!!!! Thank you for sharing the most deepest part of you with all of us. You truly are an inspiration to all. I do feel down all the time, that I am 30 with no career and I am too old to become a makeup artist, and watching this video today made me feel a whole lot better! So thank you again, for being brave and sharing. I can not wait to meet you when you come to NY!

Kandee - I happened upon your videos one Friday evening on youtube. I have become so addicted, so I guess you can call me a Kandee groupie! I watched your most recent video and and just wanted to drop you a little note to tell you how amazingly talented you are and to keep reaching. All those hopes and dreams that you have - you will get there!!! Thanks for being you!

Today's video really went deep to my heart. I totally relate to you in many ways. I am still debating in share a video with you because I am shy to cameras. Also, my story is sort long too. I just can tell you that during rough time, the best thing I do is trying to surround myself of positive people and that includes you. We dont personally know each other but just watching you I felt that genuine person you are. My light load of problems sometimes overshadow my days and I always in a constant fight to get back in track and fight for my dreams. My dreams now are blocked with the resession...been out work for 5 months already. With not job offer yet, gets to a point that I feel that my dreams are faraway again. I keep looking and also planning to go back to school and get a second degree. Meantime, I spend most of my time at home doing different activities including watching you every video you post. Kandee, thanks to share your human side with us...beside of being a makeup artist, you also a motivational speaker...if you havent realize that. Sending you a big hug to you and to your kids!

I've been following your videos on youtube and recently followed your blogs.

You have so much light and love coming from within. It is so amazing and inspiring, hearing your story at this time is helping me a lot. I'm figuring out my life and I'm not sure what to do. I'm not sure where my passions lay or where my talents lay and I'm not so sure on how to find them either. So hearing that what you do, opens your heart and makes you so happy that you smile so brightly. Its really encouraging to me, and many others I assume to find their passions and to do what they love to do.

I have a question, how do we, the ones who dont know how to find our passions or talents find what we love to do? For some it is quite easier than others.

I've been watching your videos on Youtube for a while now but after seeing this one, I felt like I had to leave a comment lol

Thanks SO MUCH for sharing your story!!!! You have no idea how encouraged and inspired I am feeling right now.

I'm almost graduated from university and yet still very uncertain about what I really want to to do with my life.... Guess it's sort of an opposite situation as yours? lol I always envy those people who have a passion deep down that they know they would love doing for the rest of their lives....

But anyhow, I guess finding the dream itself is also a part of life lol

I truly wish you all the best!!!!And can't wait to see your next video <3

(Just a little request unrelated to the post.... would it be possible for you to do a simple day look with common drug-store make-up brands?)

Hi Kandee! You are a such an inspiration! I'm a 20 year old single mom and you simply inspire me to DREAM. I would love to meet you one day! You are a blessing and you are a beautiful,beautiful person. THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME :-)

You really are an inspiration, its so hard to tell people your story, im the same, but you truely are an inspiration and a fighter and im sure despite the paranoid thoughts you may have about yourself everyone around you is so proud for turning your life around.You've definately made me think twice about hiding away or even putting off my aspirations just because it might not fit in at that time so thank you kandee!!! your truely beautiful in every sense xoxo

One day i was just looking for Megan Fox makeup look. thats when i "bumped" into ur videos. since then i have watched all ur videos on utube and followed ur blog. You have inspired me so much. I have always liked make up but now i love it. I dream of becoming a makeup artist; interior decorator. I love to see things beautiful. People laugh with joy n beauty.Looking at you i would never imagine that u have been through such a rough time. The only time i "saw" u sad was when u made that "arabic look" vid. You are amazing Kandee Johnson and i hope you know that. Thanks so so so so much for sharing your story.

omg kandee,such an amazing story u continue to inspire me and are such an amzing role model.i had the same situation with a boyfriend and i'm so glad 2 here someone as amazing, happy and beautiful as u has turned their life around..so many girls look up to you and wish 2 b u and i hope u realize that!!truely amazing!!

I watched your video twice. I'm gonna carry your story with me my whole life and think of it everytime I want to give up. Thank you sooo much for sharing!A month ago I was accepted to an education that I've been fighting for years to get it too. :)

Kandee its lexy here,i just want to say that your a huge inspiration to me after watching this video you realy brighten my whole day..you make me want more out of life and with my whole makeup plans i want it more and more and thanks to you, your making me so happy! i feel so good today after watching this video and i just want to thank you with all of my heart how appreciated i am afteer watching your video. i cant even explain how much all of your words mean to me, even if i dont win the contest witch i hope to god i do! hehe. i still will always be watching your videos because you make me more happy to go foward in life, your a strong person and we need people like you around us to keep us stronger.i love uuuuuu kandeeeluv always ur girl lexy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kandee its lexy here,i just want to say that your a huge inspiration to me after watching this video you realy brighten my whole day..you make me want more out of life and with my whole makeup plans i want it more and more and thanks to you, your making me so happy! i feel so good today after watching this video and i just want to thank you with all of my heart how appreciated i am afteer watching your video. i cant even explain how much all of your words mean to me, even if i dont win the contest witch i hope to god i do! hehe. i still will always be watching your videos because you make me more happy to go foward in life, your a strong person and we need people like you around us to keep us stronger.i love uuuuuu kandeeeluv always ur girl lexy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kandee, thank you for sharing your story. A lot of people can learn from it. Thank you for all your enouragement and words of wisdom. You're a wonderful and beautiful person, inside & out. Keep up the great work!! :o)

since the moment I first saw your videos on youtube I just got hooked. That's so rare these days to find someone real with such a positive aura. You became my virtual friend and thank you for that!! Also thank you for opening your heart.You have encouraged me already. I always wanted to do something creative. Few days ago I just finished my first make up artist course and it was awesome:-)Hopefully my dream will come true one day as well:-)Lots of love from Germany!!!

Kandee-I know you probably dont have time to read all of your comments, but I thought I would still post one anyway!I wanted to say that you have touched my life and so many others by taking the time to open your heart and share the things in your life that have hurt you, torn you down, and ripped you apart, but have ultimately made you the amazing, beautiful, talented girl you are today! By watching your videos I would have never guessed all of the struggles you had been through. It makes me respect and love you even more knowing that you have pushed through and overcome your past to get to the place you are now. You are so encouraging and I think you would be an amazing motivational speaker! Your words truly come from your heart and that is why you touch so many people. I hope sharing your feelings helped you to clear your heart and feel rejuvinated. God had a plan for you your whole life and He was there all along, carrying you when you couldnt go another step, giving you strength to go on...even if it felt like sometimes He left you. You deserve everything you have accomplished and so much more! I am so inspired by you and you have really changed my life and perspective. I hope you are having an amazing summer...keep doing what you do best- sharing your awesome suitcase of gifts and encouraging people to follow their dreams when the world is telling them otherwise!God bless you and your kids!

P.S. It would be fun to see a picture of your kids...I am sure they are simply beautiful, just like you!

Hey KandeeWell done for being able to not let all of your problems prevent you from reaching your goals and dreams! I can imagine it must've been hard for you to make this video, it will definitely help to inspire and encourage others and give people hope if they feel down! It must also be a relief and feel like a weight off your shoulder that you are able to speak about it, I admire your courage and honesty.I love how this shows another side to you... that you aren't just the smiley wonderful person that is good at making people pretty but that you are just like everyone else...you have your problems and you are able to deal with them! You must be very proud of what you have been able to achieve. I wish you even more success for the future! X

Kandee, you are just so absolutely brilliant. Thank you so, so much for touching my life, and clearly everyone else's lives for all the comments your already receiving. I have a feeling this is gonna be a long comment so this is just part 1 of this comment!

I'm 18 and I'm soon on my way to college and I have no idea at all what I want to do! I wanted to do computer engineering because it's such a stable industry now. But after watching your videos, I realized what I love has to do with art! Makeup, or set design, or graphic design. Anyway, I'm still not sure what I want to do exactly, but this was such a HUGE encouragement and words just cannot express how much this has helped me. You really moved me to tears. I find it so amazing for the person you've become; you have such an astounding amount of optimism despite your past. You clearly didn't let it hold you back and that's something so amazing to applaud for. I find that we relate even under different circumstances; I grew up with a dad whos an alcoholic and abusive, and I only have my mom in the states and she doesn't even speak English. And I've grown to be independent like you, and I now want to strive for my dreams! I try to stay optimistic, and I think, I can't even compare to your beautiful optimism yet. I'll strive for it though!

Kandee, I think your not only an amazing artist, optimist, and a happy-go-lucky sorta girl who cheers everyone on; your a life coach too. You are THE coolest person ever. I can't ever believe what those stupid men have ever done to you. They're blind and wasting their lives, while your proving to them what they missed out on. Your beautiful, your amazing, your the coolest person on earth I have ever seen. I don't leave a lot of comments, but I probably should start doing so. It just happens that when I leave comments, they tend to be really long, which is why I'm sending this as a message. Anyway, thank you for all you've done. You have the sweetest voice too; its so comforting to listen to when I've had a bad day. Overall, I just wanted to let you know your an amazing inspiration, your beautiful and absolutely, stunningly gorgeous, and your just overall perfect to my eyes, and I'm sure tons of others. I love you, Kandee!

I'll try to hold my head up high for college now and hopefully discover what I want to do. God, your just the best Kandee! You really do inspire; you've inspired me to search for my dreams, (and I even wanted to make cosplaying tutorials, though I dunno when I'll ever get to that, haha.)

P.S. If you made I <3 Kandee t-shirts, I'd totally get one. Haha, have a fantastic day. You wishing us to 'Have a great day' or in any of it's variations always makes my day! Thanks again Kandee!

Just started watching your videos, but wow you're so amazing and strong! I love the message you're sending out, and I can't believe you've been through so much! It makes all your words more meaningful and full of truth.

I have no words to discribe how this video made me feel. I have dreams that were almost dead and gone because people always told me that I couldn't make it and that's too hard out there and I don't have what it takes to follow my dream and became the person I wanna be!! And after watching your video, that voice inside of me that says "you can do it, you're gone prove them wrong" just got louder and it made me feel like I really can do it!!

When I fist discovered your youtube channel I got really excited about make up and you quickly became one of my favorites youtuber's (I totally just made that word up hahaha) not only because of the knowledge I got from your videos but also, and most importantly, because you seemed like such a nice woman, like someone I would like to meet and be friends with someday. And now that I've been watching your videos and reading your posts for quite a while, I can say now for sure that you don't only seem to be a nice woman but you truly are one!!!

I wish I could have gone to your glaminars and besides learning a lot, hug you and thank you, because your videos have taught me a lot more than just make up tricks (wich are great btw), they taught me to go after my dreams ands let no one tell me I'm not gonna make it and that I'm not good enough, because I can make it and I am good enough!!! ( this might sound silly, but it’s true)

Oh, and the fact that you have two kids makes you a lot cooler and a lot stronger because you did everything while you were taking care of them!!! It makes me admire you a lot more!!! ( and besides, I just looove kids hahahaha)

Congratulations on all that you've accomplished!!!You're an amazing make up artist, an amazing person and I bet you're an amazing mom as well!! :)

Whenever you feel discouraged just think about where you are standing right now and the awesome person you became spite it all and think about how you're helping lots of people literally arround the world (me included, I'm from Brazil) to persue their dreams and never give up!!!

Sorry this was too long, but I just felt like I had to let you know all of those things :)

I hope you had an awesome day!!!Thanks for sharing your story!!hugs and kisses Bruna

Oh Kandee!This story really touched my heart. All I wanted to do was give you a huge hug. You have gone through so much and you don't deserve anything but good in your life.

I also have to say that I too have struggled in my life. I can certainly understand when you talked about scraping by, it's so heart breaking that no one should ever go through that,

My heart goes out to you for everything that you have gone through. Although you may not agree, but maybe the reason you went through all of that was for you to share you story with all of us and help us out. I admire you for being the strong person you are today.

Wow Kandee! I agree with others, your life could have ended up so differently had you let those shattering moments ruin you. You are such a strong amazing woman. You inspire people every day! Thank you for sharing your story, I know it was hard but thank you. You deserve every sparkle you get in life, you're a wonderful person! You definitely make all your readers' hearts smile!

Kandee, you are just the sweetest person! You brought me to tears telling about the cruelty that you endured as such a young woman. What a shame that you had to go through that. But clearly it was part of the path that led you to where and who you are today; And that is a beautiful, talented, kind, generous person, who brings joy to so many people everyday. I look forward to each and every one of the videos that you make, not only because they're great makeup artistry, but because you truly bring light up my day. I wish you only wonderful things.....Nina

The hardest thing to do is admit to yourself and the world what your dreams are because if you admit it, you open yourself up to people slamming you down and also there's the possiblity of failure that creeps into your thoughts.I know it first hand and so I identify with you in regards to that fear.You've overcome so much and yet you still chose to send out a positive energy to the world through your Youtube videos and this blog. And now, the world is shining it's light of love back onto you. I really appreciate you opening up yourself and letting us see this part of you Kandee. Your triumphs and tribulations are all a part of what makes you YOU. The fact that you have managed to carve out a career despite having children to take care of is something to be incredibly proud of. Your children are also a part of who you are. Never be ashamed to share any part of yourself.xox

It is very brave of you to share your personal story with us, and everyone. If the makeup thing doesn't pan out, I think you could always fall back on motivational speaking! You should read The Alchemist by Paul Coehlo, if you haven't already. I think you'd like it very much. I hope all your current and future relationships bring you more positivity and good things. XOXO

Thank you so much for sharing this story of yours with all of us, Kandee... Your powerfull words have travelled on this night to the very other side of the world (that is where I am :) ) to touch my broken heart (broken because I had dreams that I thought were simple and not difficult to achieve, and they've become hard to reach for me, and that's made me feel bad for quite a long time now)and help it heal. I've followed your blog and videos for a while now but I was too shy to leave you any messages to let you know how much I admire you and how inspiring you are to me. But not today, after sharing all this love with me, I had to thank you for being such a special person to me.A billion hugs and kisses from Spain!!!P.S. I apologize for my English not being the best ;P

Kandee I just love you! I am 30 and in my entire life I have never met anyone as inspirational as you. I am not good at writting so I will just have to agree with everything all these people wrote to you, I feel just the same, is like... well, like I wanna move in with you! Wanna be my sister? lol All my life I desperately needed one :) Unfortunately I am too far but your blog and watching your videos is making my heart fill with happiness and inspiration, and my life got all of a sudden full of new hope and light, ESPECIALLY after this video. I feel so much stronger, I can hardly believe it! Is like, as you said, someone *pulled me by my boots straps* and made me see my life in a whole new light! If you could get over all those troubles in your life and still stay amazingly beautiful inside and outside, means I can do the same too at any time! I just LOVE you for making me feel like this! Sending you all that love all the way from Germany,LindaPS: You should make something like a live chat or give us your messenger ID, I know you dont probably have time to chat with all the thousands of us but would be great to just have you in the Friends list :)

I’m 17 years old, I live in small country near Russia and I don’t understand a lot of things what you are saying in your videos because I am just studying english, but I Love all of your videos so much! You are so positive person. When I am watching your videos you like charging me with positive energy what you are giving out and it just makes my day. :)I have few friends because I'm not outging person. My parents don't believe that I reach something big in my life but when I wached this encouraging video I just started to believe myself. You are so great!I just wanted to say Thank you for these amazing videos where you are shareing advices of beauty. Thank you so much, that you told us your life story, I appreciate it. Thank you that you give us your joy of living and your super amazing smile! I am follow the example of you. I will try to reach my dreems. I found one of your video accidentally and I am so glad that it happened. After this little event my life a little bit changed. Huge thank you for it!Keep doing videos!You'r The best!

You are amazing!!! God has such a plan and purpose for your life, and i believe that God brought you from all this for a purpose. You have this gift beyond measure. and believe me YOU MAKE MY DAY. Sometimes i wonder why we go through the mess we do, but its for purpose! Thanks for sharing, and making us average girls feel beautiful!!!!

Kandee,I am so grateful to you; you are an incredibly amazing woman and I love how you are bringing all us women together; a sisterhood of love and light to set the world on fire! I send so much love, respect, and appreciation to you with all of my heart and soul; you've encouraged me and shined light on my days when I needed it most. <3333333

You are such an Amazing person. YOu have become my idol!. Thank you so much for sharing your story i know it was hard, but i appriciate it. And i love that your cheering for everyone and there dreams :)

Kandee you are inspiring! Thank you for being open about your story. Lots of words are running aroung in my head right now but I just can't seem to write them down and make sense. I've been struggling with my career choice and wanting to make some kind of change but I don't exactly know what or how. Part of that may be because I tell myself some of the things you said like I'm too old, too fat, too whatever. I think I will take some time to really think about what fulfills me and how to make some changes!

Hey, I think it's cool not to cuss and super cool to have kids! Your kids are very lucky to have a mom like you! May God continue to bless you and your family and continue to use you to spread hope to others!!!

I am your huge fan from Sao Paulo, Brazil! :)My Name is Ana Wagner and I'am 26 years old. I was born with a desability in my eyes ( I can not see from far away very well) and being a brazilian in the 80´s and being desable and also having an older brother who was very good at eveything he did made me feel really sad, lonely and different from everyone else. I studied very hard and with a lot of determination, I managed to study in normal school, but boys usually would make fun of me and I would feel ugly and unwanted

Now all of this is gone, I will graduate next year in University, Iam Married and things are much better. When I watch your vides, I try to learn your tips so I can feel more beautiful and confident, once I have never been good with Make up!

Good luck with everything you do ! I wish you all the happiness!!! Thank you for your beautiful video.

xx Ana PS: Could you do a video for people who got olive skin with some products which are good for this skin tone? XXX

No condimnation. Thanks for sharing your story. The Bible says you over come by the Blood of the Lamb THE WORD OF YOUR TESTIMONY(what you just shared) and by not loving your life onto death. Let me tell you a little story. Hardly wore make up.Didn't really know how to put makeup on was never really taught Got into my 30s stoped having kids and decided now was my time to change the way I looked and wanted to learn how to apply makeup the propper way. Now I knew how to find the right foundation but the other stuff scared me. My husband suggested youtube. I looked and tried some of the things that some of the women would teach...but I was looking for someone that was fun and euthusiastic. Someone with spunk. I felt indemidated by some of the other videos...so one night desperate I googled "eye makeup application" and saw your videos. Told my husband he was courious and to my surprise watched your video. His comment was wow. Been watching ever since and yes know how to put on eye make without feeling imberest (yes alot of missed spelled words) As far as the dream thing goes I know how you felt no collage or college ( agian missed spelled)Wanted to go to school but didn't know what for.It wasn't until my husband bought me my first camera that I got encourgement from family that I have a knack. Thank you so so so much for the encouraging words for helping me pick myself back up and keep on truckin ahead to what my dream or passion. Love the name Kandee to me I think and this is just me makeing up stuff Kandee means the sweetness in life. I strongly believe there is a reason for your name being Kandee. You have help so so so many of us by bringing something sweet into our life. The Love of Makeup application. Thank you and keep sharing all the wonderfull secrets with us. Much Love and many hugs you haved changed the way I veiw makeup.

Dear Kandee ,I’m so impressed, you are a so beautiful person (Physically and Psychologically), strong, with a big heart, who help people to feel better, it’s very rare to know a person like you, you are a treasure. I am moved by your life, built alone by your only strength.you are a model for me and when i listen to you I say to myself that everything is possible, I have had a hard childhood and adolescence, today i live very well but I have not realized my dreams yet, because i never have I to exceed my fears and fear of hearing my close relations to say i begin things without future and without interest. I made long studies at the history university in Paris (where i live) and now i work in a scholl but I does not feel me spread and when i listen to you I do not want to loose my time longer i want to think of me, to stop saying to myself , worriedly « what happen if I stop my profession, am not too much selfish, i’m old to begin a new Vocational training ect… »You give me so much strength, I thank you wholeheartedly. (sorry to my english like)Big kisses

Kandee,First of all you have already been a HUGE inspiration in my life!! I love the way you love life...your smile is so beautiful and it just shines ever so brightly!! But I must say, after listening to your story I am even MORE inspired!! Thank you so much for sharing your past with us!! To me especially, I am a very young mother to 2 wonderful boys...but have feelings that "I'm not good enough"! But your story has really planted the seed that I can be so much more!! Thank you so much!!!!!**Jackie**

You are so brave, thank you for sharing your story! I saw one of your videos, and I was instantly hooked to your videos. I watched all of your previous videos, and I check your blog everyday when I get home. I would have never imagined you went through all of that because you are such a cheerful person. I am so happy that God answered your prayers. You are such an inspiration. You can do all things through CHRIST who gives you strength! May God continue to bless you, Kandee!

Your children are beautiful, I loved Alani's make-up video, it made me smile :) Your little ones have a beautiful mommy - inside and out :)

Your story is such an inspiration. I teared up several times listening to you. I would never dream that you had gone through something like that, because you are so vibrant and exuberant.

Thank You, Kandee, for your motivation and and incentive to be a go-getter and dream big. You have become that "one person I would like to meet." You know those pageant questions who is one person you would like to meet. You're that person for me.

You make me feel so wonderful about myself. I have a long road ahead of me as well. I start nursing school August 19th...as in the hard stuff...clinicals and all that stuff. I have a 10 month old baby girl named Kailyn. She is my motivation to do get through it, but I know it's going to be hard. I am not sure how to prepare myself for it all. I am 25 years old. I used to want to be in film and print and travel the world. Well, I STILL do. I don't know how to make that happen, so I feel like I am settling here and now. It;s kind of a conglomeration of feelings...

Your video inspires me to be that go-getter powerful woman. You are exquisite, Kandee!

Thank you sooo much Kandee for sharing your heart with all of us!! I am reading some of the posts and realizing that you have sooooo many people from all over the world: Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Philippines, England, Brazil, Russia, and America. (And those are just the ones who posted where they're from....) You've got people from 17+ watching you and responding to your heartfelt encouragement. Whoever it was who encouraged you to begin putting videos on YouTube has brought all of us together: do you think you could have touched us all as you do if hadn't began youtube-ing?! I'm 38 recently quit my job as a jewelry retail manager because my heart wasn't in it. I didn't have another job lined up, and in this economy that was very hard, but I knew I would be able to get back into my passion which is teaching high school English. I taught for 12 years and got out of it to make more money. But after 7 years of not being in the classroom, I began to hate my life and this frustration just infected everything! So, I jumped out there BELIEVING that my dream would come true... And it has!!! I start teaching again in August and I CANNOT WAIT!!!!!! :D And while I will be cutting my salary in half to go back to teaching, my heart is sooooo full for the students and to get back "home"!!!!!! I have an amateur's talent but a professional's love for makeup and fashion and discovered your videos several months ago. I admit, I've watched them all. (hehe) And when you haven't posted a video or blog, I'll go back and re-watch a snippet of video just for the encouragement!!! As you can tell by the responses, you have a TON, TON, TON of fans out here on the planet! Keep rockin'!!! Can't wait to see more!!! Thank you!!!! <333

wow! you are such a strong person! Your videos are so helpful and do make me feel pretty when I try to do my make up like how you show me! Im glad you are able to still do videos even though your career is taking off! thank you!

Kandee--thank you so much for taking the risk and sharing your story. I can't even imagine how hard that must have been, but you have totally inspired me. You are so strong (probably stronger than you realize) and your positive attitude and kind, gentle spirit are amazing to me. From the first time I watched one of your videos I was struck by how sweet, kind, and positive you are and to hear your story makes your sweet nature and positive attitude all the more amazing--I can't imagine how anybody could go through what you did and come out with such a great outlook on life. You inspire me more than you'll ever know.

before i knew your story i felt something really good about you and loved watching your videos, because both of the make up you do that is great and you. But now you have become my hero and honestly a truely inspiration. I think its amazing how kind and sweet you are after going through all that. i have also been trough bad stuf and now it is just so hard to me to trust people and sometimes i feel lost and lonely, but i just keep my head up and try to do my best everyday.i just want you to know that you are not alone and as you can see there are so many people that loves you.You are honestly a very cool beautiful person and i wish you all the best.

You have come SO far Kandee! You are an AMAZING inspiration. You're bubbly and kind hearted spirit shines through in every video you do and warms the hearts of us all. I came across your youtube videos a month or so back and I now come online every day to check if you've posted anything new :P

Thank you SO much for just being you, following your dreams and inspiring others to follow their dreams and to feel beautiful inside and out regardless of what others say!

Lots and lots of love from a HUGE fan all the way over in Australia :) xo

geez, look at how many people you have replying to this. I hope it helps show you that you really are brightening people's days, mine included. I keep thinking after every video how great a person you are and to hear your story is like, wow i thought you had your life together really well, and it shows that even after a hectic life, you can still do all the things you want to. and how you can even do all these videos with kids and a job, like you're superwoman haha. anyway, i sent this vid to my sis because she's going through a similar issue and ithought it would help her. she already ried one of your videos haha, and i show them to everyone who I know likes makeup. ok this is long haha, anyway just wanted to say all that. you're awesome, I wish I could hang out with you and go shopping haha, it would be fun. any way bye!

Kandee, you are TRULY amazing! I was a single teenage mother myself and I know what its like to have people tell you that your dreams will never come true....thank you so much for sharing your Heart! I think it is amazing what our Lord can do for us if we just let Him guide us!! :)

Kandee!Thank You so much for the words of encouragement! Hearing your story gave me to much hope and motivation to always follow my dreams and never give up! You are such an up beat, bubbly person who has a great outlook on life! Thanks so much for the inspiration!

I cannot tell you how relevant this video is to me at this moment in time. I honestly admire you so much and I think the fact that you have gone through all those horrible times is just the most amazing, admiral thing. I have just decided to quit university despite trying to make it work and I know that is nothing compared to what you have gone though but you have made me feel happier than I've been in a while. So thank you so much : ) xx

I am so proud of you wanted to tell us the story of your life. You are such a powerful and strong person. I just LOVE you!!!!

You have given me hope to do something in my life, a kind of push...to follow my dreams....just so you know I have a lot of them...haha

I am planning on coming back to the states, and attending school...finally....it has taken me years after high school because I like to live life and enjoy it...and after being a babysitter for a great great family in the desert.

You are my personal light....and you are so great and beautiful.

I would love to come on one of your, GLAMINARS, but I dont know if it is for just people that want to become an make up artist or for everyone that LOVES make up..

I have just found your website and I am just IN LOVE...It is like a nice kind of drug...I just love love it..you are amazing in what you do, and you make it so fun as well....

Keep on doing what you do!!!! You are super, and the coolest mom ever!!!

Kandee-You are my hero!You give us all such personal love and kindness as well as the knowledge to help see and bring out our own individual unique beauty.Your story has encouraged me so much and filled me with such hope. Rest assured that your love and kindness is returned a hundred fold, if not more than that!!!Thank you for being such a wonderful, inspiring mentor and teacher and showing us dreams can come true!--Raecine

Kandee-You are my hero!You give us all such personal love and kindness as well as the knowledge to help see and bring out our own individual unique beauty.Your story has encouraged me so much and filled me with such hope. Rest assured that your love and kindness is returned a hundred fold, if not more than that!!!Thank you for being such a wonderful, inspiring mentor and teacher and showing us dreams can come true!--Raecine

Kandee...wow... I am soo enlightened by your beauty, determination, love, passion and wonderful personality. you really are an angel. Thank you so much for putting your heart out there.. That, for me, was the most incredible thing you have done. Hearts are so delicate and mean the most. I have great difficulty even letting people closest to me inside my heart but you have shown me the rewards you can reap if you take a chance.i want to tell you soo much but i cant put it into words.. just know that your wonderful and your kids are amazing gifts and are all sooo beautiful and are little bright lights of their own thanks to you and you have encouraged and helped someone all the way across the atlantic in Ireland..x

You are such in inspiration! I think that knowing your story makes you even that much more amazing! As a mom of 2 i find that i can relate even more to you even though you don't talk about your kids much just knowing you are a mom following her dream is an inspiration.. Thank you for sharing your story!! I'm trying to start a small side business of making little girls dresses to help bring in money and gain some finaicial independance. Please take a look at my dresses and blog and offer any advice you can. http://sarahscuteasabutton.blogspot.com/Thank you so much for being you!

Kandee, you are BLESSED! Proverbs 3:5,6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will set your paths straight." Continue to passionately follow the path laid before you and you will SOAR!

hey Kandee this video is so inspirational.You have been through so much but it has made you a stronger person and now your dreams are coming true.I was also just wondering if maybe you offered internships or apprenticeships?I just want to gain some experience and learn things since i am also considering going into the make-up industry.I would really appreciate it if you would write back to me,but i would understand if you dont have the time.Well thank you for your time, and i love your videos :)

ohh and by the way you can contact me at my email carlosz_92@yahoo.com

Oh, your video made me cry! Thank you Kandee for opening your heart on a very personal matter. I am in a tough situation in life right now, trying to pick myself up, and your words of encouragement to go for your dreams really resounded with me. God bless you!

Thank you kandee you are truly the best I consider you my mother or aunt or something just because you pick me up when I fall and make me think about my dreams that story made me cry I'm crying right now I'm still in high school and it seems everything doesn't work with friends and parents and grades that people say ' won't get you anywhere in life' and sometimes I'm just so sad but then I feel quilty because there are starving people and I'm just confused your like a therapist and I haven't even met you you just have that much affect on people I wish I could meet you to tell you this all in person and how made it through with your little babies oh my god your just perfect kandee thank you could not describe how I'm feeling thank you thank you thank you!!!! XOXO Laurel

hi.....i just watched your video and im 17 and im engaged and i live with him and our stories are really alike and i would just love if there was a way you could take the time and maybe drop me an email when you get a chance.....my email is snowbunni51708@yahoo.com

i never would have realized tha you had such a story to you and its so wonderful that you shared it with everyone. but yeah, it would be great if i could just chat with you sometime. im always logged into my email....

Kandee, you are so incredibly inspiring. It's so amazing to me that, despite what you've been through, you are so exuberant and positive. Pretty sure I teared up a few times watching your video, partially due to the fact that my Mom went through similar circumstances :) I never comment on blogs, but I had to comment on this post to let you know that you have been my inspiration and I am succeeding at my dream largely due to you and your amazing attitude.

Keep doing what you're doing and please never lose that Kandee attitude. "Some people say you're going the wrong way when it is simply a way of your own" is the quote I live by, and it sounds like it is pretty applicable to your situation as well :) If you're ever interested in hearing my story and how you unintentionally helped me 'pull up my bootstraps', feel free to email me at kate@ktdogtraining.com - I would prefer not to post it all here ;)

Dear Kandee,I too had children when I was young. I always wanted to attend college & had completed my first yr when i became pregnant. My husband & I have struggled & have 2 children together now. Things have been rough & abusive at times.I think that we clung to ea other b/c we had nothing else.

I just graduated from college in May as a teacher. Graduating was a dream. Being a teacher is not a dream that I grew up w/. It's something that God has seemed to push me into.

Now that I have graduated, I cannot find a job. I am so depressed & feel like a total loser. Why work so hard & rack up debt to not be able to find a job? I still don't know what I want to be when i grow up. I have no talent or feel passion for anything in particular. I'm sad. with budget cuts, teachers are having a hard time finding jobs.

Kandee, you are such a beautiful person inside and out..thank you for sharing your story with the rest of us and i know that it must have been hard to divulge your deepest and darkest moments...but when we see how far you have come and achieved, it gives everyone else hope too..you have such a good heart and i know that more riches and goodness will come your way..

You are the coolest!! My story is so similar to yours. I to had a baby young. I was in my first year in college, not even 1 month in i found out i was pregnant!!! I was 18 and my boyfriend was a flake. But a child makes you WANT to do something with your life! I don't really have any freinds and when I watch your videos, it's like your talking to me! I know it sounds weird but you have such a great personality.!! I love it!

Your the best kandee. Thank you for telling your story. I love what you stand for.!!!!

THANK YOU WITH ALL MY HEART!!! It's just so comforting to know that if you really want something there's nothing or nobody that can stop you. This week has been so terrible for me i really thought of giving up what i've been dreaming of since i was 4, and just hearing your story and by seeing what persistency and desire gets you has made me cry tears of hope and joy! Thank you!!!! and i'll keep thanking you even after i reach the place i want to be!

Hi Kandee I'm from Denmark so sorry about my english, hope you understand. I just want to tell you that I have watched your videos and that I enjoy it verry much. Your video about your life actually really helped me. Specially the last part. I am sick,I have an anixty disorder, your words have given me strength. So THANK YOU SO MUCH!! Hugs, Nete

Oh my God. I am totally crying my eyes out! Kandee, just when I thought you were just too perfect, you show your brokenness and expose your heart, and it has made you even more perfect. The Lord has blessed you SO much. You have a light that shines from you and is a beacon to so many people! May the Lord continue to bless you as you have blessed so many people!

wow!! KANDEE your story SO touching! it got me crying my eyes out but im glad everything worked out. i been watching all your vidoes and u are soo amazing!!:] now from watching ur video made me think its true i shouldnt think about the thing's ppl well tell me! thanks a lot for sharing this with us. love,crystal :]

Hi Kandee, I've been watching your videos for a couple of weeks now and love all your tips, tricks, and smiles! I myself have been a single mother of two. My first is nine and my second is 6, and I understand whats is like to struggle in life. You're story is very encouraging and is a huge part of who you have become today, a beautiful, strong, loving, and funny person. Keep it up because obviously you are impacting many lives!!! Thank you for all the make up tips, they work great!!!

It was really the most touching story! congrats to all what you get untill now...you are a great inspiration (not only for me) - you are amazing! thanks for sharing your story with "us". you deserve everything good that comes your way - blessings to you and your kids!

Hi Kandee,Wow your such an amazing person, and beautiful inside and out. I have been watching your videos since arounf December and I can't stop watching them. :) I usually never leave comments because I am insucure and think stupid stuff alot the way you mention in your videos and its crazy what you think sometimes because your so beautiful and genuine.

Well I can go on days and days and explain the way you have touched me and made me look at myself a different way and have inspired me so much. I am so glade you introduced your life story with us and your GORGEOUS children. I am 20 years old and have 2 year old son, and I have had a ruff childhood and neither of my parents around and I have lived on my own since I was knocked up at 17 and graduated high school 7 months pregnant. I have had a bad relationship too all so young and was forced to grow up really fast. But before my story gets to long....I just wanted to thank you so much and sharing your children really made me look at you like OMG if she can so can I, and I can relate on so many other levels. Thanks so much Kandee.

Thank you Kandee. Your videos have been an inspiration for me. I have never been very good with makeup but your videos have taught me so much. It has also given me tons of confidence to go out and face the world. I see a whole new side of myself that I lost so many years ago.

I accidentally came upon a video of yours on youtube during my recovery from surgery and instantly was inspired...I started to cut a few shirts and figured out hey I really like this look then I watched some of your makeup videos and was inspired to go outside my little 3 colors and instantly ran to the store....I bought bright colors and colors I would NEVER have worn. I started taking care of my skin. Then the other day I watched your bang cutting video and cut my hair. But instead of side bangs I got blunt straight... At first I was like aw i look horrible I have this whole poshbob thing now with straight bangs and I live in a small town so most girls have the poshbob but in different lengths but the more I looked around OMG nobody has the bangs!!! So then ppl started commenting asking did I do something different or wow your hair is really cute where did you get it cut at!! I then noticed my old confidence coming back. So again I set up on my computer and watched your eyebrow video...money has been tight and I had no idea where to start on my eyebrows... I watched your video and bam off to the store I went... Sat down and did it! They turned out great! Again more confidence came... So I bookmarked your blog and came to go to it for makeup and hair then I came across this video.... Sat here and cried... Kandee I had no idea that someone out there had been through so much of the things I had.. I moved away with a man at a young age and it was a rough relationship that is very similar to your prior situation. I gave up on my dreams of being in fashion and modeling and settled for drug use and abuse.... Then I moved back home and just felt useless I was recovering from drugs and lost my "spark" I'd stay home and it was horrible. (I have been drug free now for 5yrs) Then a few good relationships came and went. Then met another guy who I thought was perfect but said those similiar things like your 2nd relationship. Shut up, your annoying, cant you do anything right etc... And I recently left that relationship. Now after watching your videos and reading your blog I'm inspired! I feel my old "spark" my old self the one who is confident and has potential. Kandee you deserve the best I wish you the world you are truely amazing. I have now started drawing again and working on my passions all b/c someone whom I've never met has shown they care. A thousand thank yous!!!Krissi

Kandee, There are no words to explain on what a positive impact your story has done for me:) Thank you for sharing such a motivating story for all, thanks again for sharing such personal momments in your life, and for the record I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS!!nALLE**

KandeeYou are amazing, u r such a powerful person with incredible inspiration which has inspired many.I was always afraid to say I was a nurse. People would laugh at me and tell me I had to clean peoples bottoms. You have inspired me to stand up tall and be proud of what I am doing. I am not afraid to say I am a nurse any more. If they tell me I have to wash peoples bottoms I will tell them I am doing something for them that they can't do, they appreciate what I do for them and I am touching their hearts and it makes me feel AMAZING to think I have made a difference for someone.Thank you so much Kandee.

You made me cry! That's okay, though, I don't mind, haha! You're such a beautiful person, and such a strong woman. You've overcome a lot, and you're a better person for that. Many people break down at your experiences, but you grew out of it. This is why everyone loves you. Thank you for sharing your story. It just made us love you even more. Keep being strong, and keep being a wonderful role model for everyone out there that watches you. There are a lot of young girls who watch you, and will learn a lot from you!

I keep using the word inspiring when I think/respond to you...but the more you open up, the more inspiring you are, Kandee! You have done it Kandee (gone after your dreams)...with strength, resilience and endurance...and listening to your story brought tears to my eyes...just by how much it touched my heart. You are a wonderful, amazing and yes, INSPIRING person who has been through real tough traumatic challenges but turned them into such positivity and beauty (the makeup you do proves that...your kids definitely prove that even more so). Keep on going Kandee! Thank you so much for sharing...I know it was hard...but thank you so much!Huge hug!!!

Hi Kandee, I'm new at this... hee hee; I was watching a video of yours on YouTube and saw your website and decided to check it out; saw this video title (Your Story) that seemed to be EXACTLY what i was looking for... no makeover, no tips; just HONESTY. It's something that I've been looking for, for a long time now. I've been in a really bad and autodestructive relationship with this guy and hence with myself for almost 4 years now; I've bent over backwards trying to figure out why I keep letting myself stay and stand for all his abuse?!?!? I live in Mexico City all by myself; my family lives in the States (which is where I'm originally from) and it's HARD. I don't really ever have anybody to talk to; and then the other day I came by one of your videos on YouTube, and it made me SMILE, genuinely SMILE; I hadn't smiled in so long it made me immediately conscious and I stopped; but then as I kept on listening to you and your bubbly loving way of talking and reaching out to others, ALL I COULD DO WAS SMILE!!! I so admire your perseverance and wish I could be more like you, and see beyond the present situations; I feel lost... and I remember what you said about remembering who we were as a child and THAT is what brings us closer to our TRUE selves. I keep on trying, but I feel like I have nothing left; no clear dreams anymore, no idea of what talents I have; and yet every single time I hear your voice or watch one of your videos you make me feel like the world is my playground and nothing is impossible; no dream or desire is foolish; and those who say so simply don't understand it and will be the first to stand mouth-opened when they see it. It's just hard sometimes, I'm afraid at what might happen if I try soething, maybe I'm no good at it; or maybe I'll be made fun of. I'm the one in my family who's not done anything with her life; and that's what mademe join your blog; I related to your story; my sister is the one with the husband, family, career and everything in apparent order; and I'm the one living alone in the biggest cityin the world without a clue of what to do now!!! I got pregnant last year; and this guy was totally against it; and i lost the ONE thing I've wanted most in my whole life, as simply as that; I wish I had found your videos sooner; but I guess everything happens for a reason. I'm sorry to have gone and spilt my brains out like this; it's just, you seem like a kindred heart to me; I know you'll understand and I just want to sincerely THANK YOU for everything, for every piece of advice, for every genuine smile; for every single effort you give in making each video; and especially for every heartfelt word you say, and said in this video that brought me to tears. I love the beautiful heart that God gave you and admire the way your perseverance brings every bit of that beauty out and radiates on each one of us. YOU have a gorgeous day Kandee, YOU deserve it! :)

I receive emails everyday from a website www.tut.com - they are really inspirational quotes "from the universe" - Yesterday I received this one and I thought of your Vblog:

"Look at it like this, the more challenging your life story has been so far, the bigger the goose bumps for future generations who retell it to their kids. Who will no doubt add, "And if she was able to do all that, so can you!"

my mom's in jail&she has been for 3years,I know I'm not the only one!,but she was taken away from me 2days before christmas! I'm about to start highschool&I'm scared to death without her(phobia's of first days),my sister is graduating&there's a chance she won't get to see my sister walk across that stage,which breaks both my mom and sister's heart.I have dreams of becoming a singer,not something I always tell people,because they'd probably laugh,I want to be a singer so bad,not for the fame but for the lyrics in my songs that everyone could relate to!Thanks for reading![:

Hi there Kandee, Thank you for sharing your story.It took alot of courage to do that.I went through alot myself.I was in an abusive relationship for 4 1/2 years.It was really hard for me.Seven years later I'm in a healthy and loving relationship with my bestfriend.(A guy)For the first time in my life I'm the happiest that I've ever been.Again thank you for sharing your story.You are an inspiration and a beautiful person inside as well as out.Keep up the good work! Lots of hugs coming your way!

You are such a beautiful person inside and out for being able to share such a hard time in your life and being able to pick yourself up out of that dark horrible place to help others through whatever hardship they are going through...You continue to inspire me every time I watch your videos to seek out my dreams no matter how hard they are to accomplish or what people will think of me...just know that you are uplifting so many people with what you do...thank you so much Kandee! You are awesome! <3Linz

WOW. I know what you mean though. I'm 19 and I'm not going through as much as you did, but I feel like my dreams are out of my reach. But don't worry I haven't given up. I want to be a nurse, I'm taking my classes. But every year with more and more budget cuts it seems that I'm able to take less and less classes. I'm only at a community college and I feel as though it's going to take so much time for me to be able to reach my goal. I hope that I can make it and I never let myself think I can't do it. It's not a creative dream like yours, but it is my dream.

You are such a beautiful person Kandee and I mean both inside and out. I have never watched such a sincere and touching video. I felt like you were talking to ME and were answering my questions and fears. Thank you so much for being courageoous enough to open up and share such personal life lessons.

You are such a beautiful spirit! Your story and your boundless joy and enthusiasm touched my heart and encouraged me to continue pursuing my writing career. I've published my first book and things haven't taken off the way I hoped, but you have helped reignite my passion. Thank you, thank you, thank you times infinity! You're in my prayers :)

Wow!! You are truly an inspiration! How could anyone want to dampen such a bright spirit?!? You have a light in you that just glows and it is sad to hear that you went thru such hard times but so amazing that you didn't let bad people and situations change you into a bitter,broken, or cold person. I think you are so courageous sharing your story to people you have never meet nor seen!!!!People like you are so hard to come by in this heartless world and is so refreshing to find someone who truly and geniunly cares for others. You are so beautiful, smart, creative, positive, and uplifting it blows my mind how anyone could think otherwise. Hate to hear that you ever thought otherwise of yourself. Hope nothing but great things come your way. Your kids are blessed to have such a wonderful women as a mother.

Kandee, you are my freakin hero. This is my first time commenting on one of your videos, but I have been coming to your blog for a pretty long time now. Your attitude is amazing and sometimes I watch your videos just to cheer myself up when I'm sad. Keep it up, you are beautiful and amazing!

You're story is... I'm sorry,I can't find my words! You're not how I was expecting. The first video I watched it was about a tshirt and even if I found it interesting I thought you're a teenage with a very easy life. I kept watching your videos and finally found your blog. And now I see you in a very different way. I'm so glad you're better now and yes you give me courage to follow my dreams.(My English is a bit bad,but I hope you get the message) Take care of you and your little angels! xoxo

Wow!! You are truly an inspiration! How could anyone want to dampen such a bright spirit?!? You have a light in you that just glows and it is sad to hear that you went thru such hard times but so amazing that you didn't let bad people and situations change you into a bitter,broken, or cold person. I think you are so courageous sharing your story to people you have never meet nor seen!!!!People like you are so hard to come by in this heartless world and is so refreshing to find someone who truly and geniunly cares for others. You are so beautiful, smart, creative, positive, and uplifting it blows my mind how anyone could think otherwise. Hate to hear that you ever thought otherwise of yourself. Hope nothing but great things come your way. Your kids are blessed to have such a wonderful women as a mother. Nic

thank you so much for bearing your heart and soul like this. you are such an inspiration. your messages of positivity and going after your dreams brings light and hope to people's lives. you truly are amazing.

FIRST, kids are def cool. i think u are even cooler for having 3. SECOND, that was all what i needed to hear. THIRD, i wish u woke me up every morning encouraging me.. hahah sometimes i need a kick in the butt to get going. thank u for this!

kandee i have watched your videos for a long time now but it wasnt until now that i have ever posted anything. i think you are so beautiful and inspirational. your kids are so lucky to have a mother so encouraging and full of life and love...

i have been through some tough things in my life too, but your video made me realize how small and insignificant the bad stuff is when i have so many blessings in my life. i wish you all the love in the world and to everyone else who is on here i hope you, too, love and prosper. no dream is too big!! :D

Oh Kandee, you are such a strong person, you have beenthru so much, but you are still standing strong. I really love your make up and the way you are, when I watch your videos it makes me so happy because you are so lovely and fun. You have very beautiful soul. Take care. My favorite Makeup artist! (Sorry about my English, I am from Estonia.)

Wow, you just made me cry.Thank you, Kandee. Seeing this really came at the right time. My father died a month ago after fighting cancer for almost a year. I am really heartbroken but it also made me feel like now is really the time to live my life the way I want it, to not wait, to not accept things anymore for what they are while I really want something else. I also want to make my father proud.I am stuck in this job that I do not want to do. The people are fantastic and it pays well, but I am really unhappy doing the work. So I've been talking to friends and my sister about what would really be a good job for me, what I'd really LOVE to do. And there are a few things but the #1 thing my heart tells me to do is to go into make-up. I completely have no idea how to go about it but your video gave me the courage to just go into the world and find out. I have to take charge and even though it's scary and I feel like I am not good enough I will make sure I will get good enough and get the education needed and just.. go for it.I am 24 and I don't want to wake up at 40 feeling like time just flew by because I did the same boring thing everyday. I am tired of fighting, I have fought things all my life but if I could do that and get out more than ok, I should definitely be able to fight for what brings me joy and makes my heart smile, right?

You've been through so much. I just see a beautiful, happy, sweet woman and I have no idea what's been in her past. I am proud of you and you really are an inspiration to me.

Hello Kandee, after gettig out of an abusive relationship I write to you to tell you that you are an inspiration for a lot of girls, if you with Gods help, have overrcome so much I think you also have inspired many to do something about difficult situation...

For any girls who need help, to get out of a bad relationship, share your story or just talk about the way you feel, please come to my blog

WOW amazing! There are SOOOO many women who have been through horrible experiences like yourself but there are few with the guts and determination to pull through and follow their dreams. I'm very fortunate that my young marriage and pregnancy have lasted a healthy 7 yrs and that I'm encouraged to follow my dreams, but sometimes they really do seem impossible, money, time, energy, resources...all can get in the way, but thank you for your inspiring story! OH and btw..being a mom makes you even cooler in my book...;)

WOW amazing! There are SOOOO many women who have been through horrible experiences like yourself but there are few with the guts and determination to pull through and follow their dreams. I'm very fortunate that my young marriage and pregnancy have lasted a healthy 7 yrs and that I'm encouraged to follow my dreams, but sometimes they really do seem impossible, money, time, energy, resources...all can get in the way, but thank you for your inspiring story! OH and btw..being a mom makes you even cooler in my book...;)

I don't really leave comments because I find it to be a bit creepy to write to a stranger but I couldn't help it and I just have to say that you are truly one of the most beautiful human being inside and out that I have noticed in a long time. I agree with those who have said that you truly do deserve all the good that comes your way. It is very inspirational to see someone not give up on his or her dream especially when the dream involves helping others in one way or another.

wow! Kandee, thank you thank you thank you! You are AMAZING! How brave of you to share your story. I love youuuuuu! wow, I can't get over how far you've come and what you had to go through! I am 27 and starting out as a makeup artist and I thought I am too old and not good enough. What you said just encouraged me so much! Thanks again!

I just stumbled across one of your videos on youtube so I decided to check out some more of your stuff. I watched this video and it honestly brought tears to my eyes. You are an incredible woman. You are such an inspiration, beautiful inside and out. Not only are you a very talented make up artist, but you're a perfect motivational speaker. I love all the metaphors you use, especially the one about the shattered mirror and how it shines even more light than a perfect mirror. It's so true. And the whole "perfectly imperfect" thing, I always use irony like that, my main one being "simply complex." But I think you're amazing and so bubbly and full of life you really are such an inspiration for anyone. Thank you for sharing your story, you are so brave and I know you're probably misunderstood very often but you never let that get you down. Stay strong, and keep shining your light on the world, good luck with everything in your life.

Hey Kandee! I just want to say that I know how much relationships like that can bring you down. I was in a similar(and worse) situation for nearly 10 years. It started when I was 16. Such things take a toll and I have found it difficult to find myself again. I have 2 kids and divorced. It was such a negative time, I am still trying to find myself again(years later). Though my kids are best thing in my life. I think it is amazing that you have such courage to speak about it and also that your spirit still shines through. I came across one of your videos by accident but I am thankful that I did. You have a way about you that just makes people smile. That is an amazing gift from God. So thank you for that, as when I accidentally came across that video of yours I really needed a reason to smile. :)

Kandee, i just wanna let you know that absolutely love you! I was complaining about my make-up one day and one of my friends told me to look you up on youtube. So i did. Then i went to your blog. And this video has been the most inspirational by far. I just got out of a 4 year relationship and i thought my world was over. My heart was shattered into a million pieces. I thought that my life was over. There didnt seem to be any point to life anymore. I was soo depressed after my boyfriend and I broke up. He cheated on me and i felt like it was my fault because there must have been something i wasnt doing right or he wouldnt have cheated but you made me realize that its not my fault and now im definitely in a better place than i was before watching this video. And no i dont think youre a loser for having a kid and being a single mom. I think you are the best thing God created. It takes alot to be a teenage mom and you are probably the best and most fun parent anyone could ask for. You deserve every good thing that has happened to you and the many more good things that are to come. You have changed my outlook on life as well as many others. This video brought tears to my eyes cause i can relate to your relationships. And i know you have a lot of supporters and its probably not that big of a deal to have one more but just so you know i love you and support you and i thank you for all that you have done for me through your videos. hugs and kisses

Hi Kandee! I have to say that I admire you even more since the moment I knew You've got children. I know it must been difficut to tell your story but you can't imagine how your expression and your face change when you speak about your profession and your love for work. Your eyes spark and you look totally different. I am sure that when you go through difficult times you learn to appreciate life.

I have no words for what I just heard. This is perhaps the most transparent and sincere "testimony" I have ever heard. God really did ressurect your dreams and came through for you. This is just an amazing example of what God can do in our lives when we are at our lowest. Kandee, I'm so touched and moved. I'm also at a point in my life where I need to make serious decisions to either go for my dream or hold back. I've made a LOT of mistakes. I've taken for granted a million times the opportunities that God made available for me. I'm guilty for all of it. But, watching you on this video made me realize that I need to forget the past and move onto what I have to do right now. I've also felt a million times that I'm too old now and that I've blown up my life so many times.. is there really hope for me to achieve all that I want to achieve?? You really have encouraged me to GO FOR IT and not to look back. Moreover, it just makes me want to have God's very best for me, instead of limiting him. He is far more gracious than we are w/our own dreams and goal. THANK YOU KANDEE & THANK YOU GOD FOR MAKING UR DREAMS COME TRUE. YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! AND I LOVE U!!!!!!! (we share the same birthday btw.. yayyyyyy! :))

I have been watching your videos on Youtube and have just been amazed by your personality and how positive and upbeat you are. I love the way you view the world around you. Then I watched your Thank You! video and realized that I must have missed your story. How can I watch this video?

Hi Kandee,I just recently stumbled onto your videos and your blog and I have read all of your adventures in kandeeland. I think you are such a wonderful person and a very rare gem in this world. There are not many people like you. You have really changed my life. I know everyone says that but I was not very happy with my life and what I was doing and your words have helped me to go for the career I really want and be all around more positive. I just wanted to see if there is any way I can watch this video because every time I try to play it it says it is set to private. I was hoping there was some way for me to view it. thank you and much loveSasha

Hey Kandee, I've been watching your videos and reading your blog for about a month already. You are so beautiful and admirable. When I’m feeling down I tend to go watch your videos since you’re so bubbly and fun. Last night I came upon "Go get your dreams & my story" video, it filled my heart up with love and a “can do” attitude. I also got married at 17 and had a baby. It was hard for me because my husband was very jealous and didn't allow me to do as many of school activities as I wanted too. He was physically and emotionally abusive during my pregnancy and kept on happening for about a year after. I had left him for a month because I didn’t want my daughter to grow up in that environment and think it was ok for a man to treat women that way. During that month he went to counseling and realized that what he was doing was not right. After he showed me that he was truly changing we got back together and moved to an apartment.I finished high school with honors and got a scholarship to go to the state university, but I am not sure if I want to keep doing this. During high school, I had a teacher/mentor that told me “You learn the most during your toughest times.” Thanks to her I realized that I could finish school even with a daughter and husband, but I am not sure what path to take anymore. My true passions are in make-up and in baking. I don’t know what to do anymore, if I should appeal my scholarships or if I should go and follow my passions. I would like to thank you for being an inspiration and for sharing your story. We all love you and are glad that you followed your dream.Lots of Love, Brisa